Volkswagen global confirms Skoda Rapid facelift for India

Desirazu VenkatTuesday 12 July 2016, 09:03 AM

Volkswagen, in its annual report, has confirmed that there will be a facelift for the Skoda Rapid later this year. The model has been shown wrapped up in the presentation under the sedan category but we know that it will get cosmetic updates internally and externally. Also in the pipeline, is an uprated diesel engine scheduled for debut around the same time.

We have seen this facelifted Rapid testing on multiple occasions near Mumbai and know that it will get the latest fascia from the stables of the Czech automaker. This is now in line with what we have been seeing with the Skoda Octavia and Superb. There is also expected to be a new design for the alloy wheels and possibly some upgrades to the tail lamps.

Moving into the cabin, it is expected to receive the new touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control and some new fabrics for the seats. Finally, the 1.5-litre diesel engine’s output will jump from 103bhp to 108bhp but in the process also take a leap in terms of fuel efficiency.

We believe that this facelifted Rapid will be priced marginally higher than the current model. It will compete with the likes of the Volkswagen Vento, Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and the Hyundai Verna.